PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
The State Agriculture and Farmers Welfare minister Ganesh Joshi participated in a free sapling distribution programme organised by the Horticulture department at his camp office on the eve of Harela festival- a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich environmental and cultural traditions-on Wednesday. A large number of farmers and citizens participated in it where saplings of various fruit, aromatic and medicinal species, including mango, litchi, guava, lemon, pomegranate and jackfruit, were distributed free of cost.
On this occasion, Joshi, while wishing the people of the State, a happy Harela festival, said that Harela embodies Uttarakhand’s cultural identity as well as environmental protection. “This festival reminds us of our responsibilities towards nature. Planting trees alone is not enough; it is also our collective responsibility to protect and nurture the planted trees,” he added.
He further stated that last year, the Horticulture department had planted over nine lakh fruit trees during the Harela festival. “This year, the campaign has been expanded, with a target of planting 1.1 lakh trees, including one lakh fruit trees, 50,000 Tea plants, and 50,000 mulberry plants,” he added. Notably, this state-wide campaign was launched in Dehradun district on Wednesday.
Dwelling on the priority of the State government, Joshi stated that they are prioritising fruit trees because people’s natural affinity for fruit encourages them to regularly care for them, increasing their chances of survival. “Along with environmental protection, they will provide economic and nutritional benefits to the people in the future,” he said.
The minister urged the people to plant as many trees as possible during the Harela festival, protect them and participate in building a green and clean Uttarakhand for future generations.
